1. What is Dimensional Weight?

Dimensional weight (also called volumetric weight) is a pricing technique for commercial freight transport which uses an estimated weight calculated from the length, width and height of a package. UPS uses dimensional weight to calculate shipping costs for large, lightweight packages.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the UPS dimensional weight formula:

Where:

• \( Length \) — Longest dimension of the package (inches)
• \( Width \) — Second longest dimension (inches)
• \( Height \) — Shortest dimension (inches)
• 139 — UPS dimensional factor (domestic shipments)

Explanation: The formula calculates the cubic size of a package and converts it to a dimensional weight value that can be compared to the actual weight.

3. Importance of Dimensional Weight

Details: UPS charges based on whichever is greater - the actual weight or the dimensional weight. This prevents large, lightweight packages from taking up truck/plane space without paying appropriately.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your package at its longest point in each dimension. Round each measurement to the nearest whole inch. Enter the values in inches.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between actual weight and dimensional weight?
A: Actual weight is what the package weighs on a scale. Dimensional weight reflects how much space the package occupies in the truck or plane.

Q2: Is the divisor always 139?
A: For UPS domestic shipments, yes. International shipments may use different divisors (often 166).

Q3: How do I reduce dimensional weight charges?
A: Use smaller boxes, compress contents if possible, or choose a shipping method with a higher dimensional factor.

Q4: What's the minimum billable weight?
A: UPS typically rounds up to the next whole pound after calculating dimensional weight.

Q5: Does dimensional weight apply to all packages?
A: Generally only applies to packages larger than 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches).